Vancouver’s charity gala events and fundraisers
Supporting kids in sport, and kids who can’t afford sport, is all part of the fight that the people at Athletics 4 Kids (A4K) believe in. Known for their glamorous boxing gala events here at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club, the gang behind the ring decided that a second battle might be in order. This time, thanks to the good people at the Hard Rock Casino, guests enjoyed another magical night of fundraising and ringside seats to one of the best events around.
If you’ve never attended the Whistler Film Festival you are missing out. Missing out on the opportunity to see the Canadian premiere of soon-to-be-nominated Oscar films. Missing out on meeting A-List actors, directors and screenwriters – and missing out on some of the most enjoyable seminars, workshops and parties around. Proudly sponsored in part by Turner Media Canada, we are already anxiously awaiting next year’s exciting event. Join us!
The 5th Annual Christmas on the Shore was held at the Beach House Restaurant in West Vancouver. The night was full of sparkle and good cheer as guests came together to donate to this very worthwhile charity which has, for over 60 years, provided education, support and counselling to families in need across the North Shore community. Thanks to the generosity of the Fuller family (of Earls fame).
It was one of the biggest galas of the year raising over $2.5 million dollars. Restoring Vancouver’s Chinatown was the cause celeb and the who’s who of Vancouver turned out to help. This sold out event was held at the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel and thanks to the generosity of some of West Vancouver’s most prominent families, the night was a complete success. Congrats to all involved.
The First Blossom of HOpe fundraiser was held recently at the Chateau Versailles Design Centre in West Vancouver. An elegant cocktail style event, the night helped raise funds for the Lions Gate Hospital HOpe Centre in support of youth mental health care on the North Shore.
Swim. Drink. Fish. The message was as crisp and clear as the waters they are trying to protect. The Fraser Riverkeepers Gala, held at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia in Vancouver, was a delight for all the senses. Fabulous food, famous faces and a live music lineup that rivals most award shows – this was a night to remember as every detail helped remind us that our waterways, rivers, oceans and streams are one of the Earth’s most valuable commodities.
It was like walking into a living art gallery. The St. Paul’s Foundation’s Brilliant gala, held at the Rocky Mountaineer, was a magical from start to finish. Guests were invited to walk into a “Gallery of Wonders” where models dressed as famous works of art decorated the venue. Supporting mental health and addiction programs, the evening raised 1.5 million and included a vibrant live auction, fashion show and live dance performances.
It was a feast for the eyes – and the heart. The inaugural Shine – No Stigma featured a fashion and dance extravaganza staged by hundreds of volunteers who rallied together to raise funds and awareness for mental health and addiction while addressing the stigma of mental illness. Held at the Commodore Ballroo all proceeds go to the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and the Lion’s Gate Hospital, HOpe Centre.
Leo Awards Vancouver – I’ve always said they’re like our own version of the Oscars and Emmys. The Leo Awards, now in their 17th year, celebrated the best in BC with all the red carpet glam that goes with Hollywood North. Held at the Hyatt hotel – actors, directors, writers and producers strutted their stuff for the cameras and for the right to hold a coveted Leo Award. Three star-studded nights included live music, guest presenters a formal dinner and more. Congrats to everyone involved.
Deighton Cup Vancouver – It was a day of horse racing like no other. The Deighton Cup at Hastings Park in Vancouver hosted the best dressed in the city at this summer’s most elegant outdoor party. Hats and haute couture were the name of the game as VIP champagne booths lined the track while live music, and live betting, kept guests in the swing of things. Partial proceeds went to support the Variety – The Children’s Charity of BC.
Kay Meek Gala
West Vancouver’s most elegant theatre of art, culture and music – the Kay Meek Centre – welcomed dignitaries and guests to its annual fundraising gala. A beautiful garden reception with food by Mangia E Bevi was followed by a rollicking performance by The Second City. MC Vicki Gabereau introduced new incoming executive director Rob Gloor and the evening was capped off with a dessert reception and meet and greet with the cast. Congrats.
North Shore Waterfront Gala
The Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier in North Vancouver provided the perfect setting for a formal evening of fundraising at the second annual North Shore Waterfront Gala. Champagne, dinner, silent auction and more were all part of the event which was founded by sponsers Cargill, Kinder Morgan, Fibreco, Neptune Terminals, Richardson and Western Stevedoring. Monies raised go to support the north Shore Neighbourhood House and the Learning Disabilities Association in Vancouver.
Canadian Cancer Society Daffodil Ball – Celebrating their 20th anniversity, the Canadian Cancer Society’s glamorous Daffodil Ball was held at the spectacular Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. A VIP champagne reception, with live music by Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy, kicked off the night. Then there was the formal dinner, digital silent auction, the legendary cake live auction and dancing into the night. Raising an amazing $1.3 million, this gala continues to impress as it helps advocate in the fight for life. Congrats to everyone involved.
Lions Gate Hospital Gala – It was a perfect summer evening at Capilano Golf and Country Club as guests gathered for one of the most important galas of the year. The Lions Gate Hospital Foundation’s annual gala is always a stunning affair complete with champagne reception, silent and live auction items and fabulous food. A record breaking $1,303,819 was raised which will go towards helping build BC’s first-ever Youth Concurrent Disorders Unit.
It has to be one of the most colourful and fashionable events in Vancouver. Add in the bow ties, fanciful hats, champagne VIP lounge, luxury cars and horse racing and it’s easy to see why it’s also one of the hottest parties of the summer. The Deighton Cup, produced by the good folks at The Social Concierge, was held last weekend at Hastings Park. Local celebs and socialites were easy to find as they placed their bets from luxury sky suites adjacent to the track. Live music, savoury snacks, cigars and mint juleps rounded out the experience. Congrats to everyone involved.
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01 – Glitter gal and stylist Crystal Carson poses with David Bentil, supplier/sponsor of luxury cars and owner of Miles End Motors.
02 – PR pros Steven Schelling and Kate MacDougall of Camber Communications work the VIP tent.
03 – Beautiful Annabella Chen, who works at West Van Florists, wore a stunning headpiece made of real flowers.
04 – They’re the men behind the magic. Social Concierge’s Jordan Kallman, left, Tyson Villeneuve with Dax Droski of Cocktails and Canapes catering.
05 – Bobbie Long, from Baracos and Brand, helped style David Hennessey who won best male costume.
06 – Prevail, (aka Kiley Hendriks) of Swollen Members music fame, poses with the beautiful Keilani Jung.
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By Catherine Barr – July 26, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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It’s a month long party out in Richmond as the River Rock Casino Resort holds their Diamond Celebration and 10 year anniversary party. A special VIP evening was held last week as dignitaries, politicians and invited guests were treated to a glamorous evening at the conference centre. The birthday theme included gourmet food and extra special party items like hot dogs, cotton candy and a full ice cream sundae station. There was also a special tribute to the many artists that have performed at the resort since its opening and a cheque presentation to the City of Richmond in the amount of $30,000. After, guests were invited to stay to see the legendary Justin Hayward, lead vocalist, guitarist and songwriter for the Moody Blues. I still can’t stop thinking about his haunting rendition of “Knights in White Satin”. The party continues at the resort until June 30 with ongoing live music, shows, food specials, hotel packages and more.
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01 – Rod N. Baker, president and CEO of Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, seen here with , welcomes VIPs and dignitaries to the celebration night.
02 – Susan Dolinski, left, vice president of communications at British Columbia Lottery Corporation chats with media manager Sonja Mandic of Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.
03 – Great Canadian Gaming’s senior vice president of operations Peter Goudron, left, with Hastings Racecourse general manager Darren MacDonald.
04 – Raj Mutti, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver general manager, with Tanya Ruskowski, assistant to the president.
05 – Making the welcome speeches and more is Chuck Keeling, vice president, stakeholder relations and responsible gaming at Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.
06 – Fraser Downs general manager Ken Stratton attends the event with guests Weatie Rosenlehner, left, and Dolores Prasad.
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By Catherine Barr – June 13, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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The Kay Meek Centre in West Vancouver is a community gem. Loved for its plays and performances, it has become a place that supports the professional arts and the people in a small community known for its close-knit nature. Last week, it was time for the annual gala fundraiser. This year superstar Canadian comic Rick Mercer headlined the event with his one-man show and lots of laughs. The evening also included a garden reception complete with food and drinks and lots of mixing and mingling before the show.
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01 – MLA Jordan Sturdy, left, chats with Christine and Rick Amantea, of Park Royal fame.
02 – Fashionista Marilyn Diligenti, of Marilyn’s fashions, is proud to have son Franco on her arm this night.
03 – Kay Meek’s Jeanne LeSage, left, and Dorothy Byrne, West Van Arts Centre Trust Secretary, hold up a copy of Rick Mercer’s new book.
04 – Enjoying the sunshine on the patio prior to the show are Glen Slingerland, left, Karen Pedersen, Leslie and Don Rutledge.
05 – Amandah Tanner, left, chats with hubby/weatherman Marke Driesschen and former CBC weather gal Claire Martin.
06 – They’re so popular. Shucking oysters from Rodney’s Oyster Bar are Isaac Martin and Ty Fraser.
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By Catherine Barr – June 6, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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The Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Golden Heart gala dinner was held at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver last week. A black tie affair, the night featured live and silent auction items, entertainment and a five-star dinner all served in the hotel’s lavishly decorate ballroom.
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01 – Gala chair and Olympian Charmaine Crooks and husband Anders welcome guests to the reception.
02 – Honourary chairs Jane and Peter Scott.
03 – Stéphane Mouttet, of the Shangri-La Hotel, poses with volunteers Tracy Lee, left, and Hannah Dohl.
04 – Rick and Bonnie Hatswell, of Craftsman Collision, left, attend the event with Gillian Dixon-Boxer and Morris Ergas.
05 – They’re heart champions all the way. Athletes and authors Dr. Douglas Clement and wife Diane know what it takes to live a healthy life.
06 – Mom Joan, left and wife Christina are happy to accompany former Canucks hockey star Tony Tanti to the big event.
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By Catherine Barr – June 6, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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Can you imagine having no schools or hospitals? How about no crops or food? Sadly, this is real life for entire populations of people living in Africa. It is also the life many children are born into with little hope for the future. Lift The Children is trying to change all that. With 10,000 children in more than 80 orphanages, Lift The Children is an organization “dedicated to seeking out the world’s most destitute children and providing them with the necessities, training and inspiration they need to develop, grow, and become self-sufficient.” Recently, at the glamorous Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel in Vancouver, guests and VIPs came out to support the society with a magical fundraising evening. Featuring a live auction, and live entertainment by comedian Jason Hewlett, the event raised more than $735,000 for the charity.
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01 – Fashion designer Grandy Chu, second from right, poses with her models to show off the latest black and white styles.
02 – Helping support the cause are Bill and Lauren Persson of Fino Lino fame.
03 – Rene and Deb Palsenbarg mingle during the cocktail reception.
04 – Funny and talented, entertainer/comedian Jason Hewlett had everyone laughing out loud.
05 – Beautiful Naz Taylor finally got to spend some time with partner Geoff after a busy day as organizer.
06 – Enjoying some conversation before the dinner are Adrian Alleyne and Asgar Virji.
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By Catherine Barr – May 31, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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It was a celebration of women, fun and fashion at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel last week as guests gathered to join in the fight against ovarian cancer. Still considered the most fatal of all women’s cancers, the 2014 Lover Her Gala celebrated the memory of those we’ve lost while helping to raise funds for Ovarian Cancer Canada (the only national charity dedicated solely to overcoming ovarian cancer). Despite the solemn nature of the cause, laughter and smiles were still the order of the night as Canadian comedienne and former Royal Canadian Air Farce star Jessica Holmes took to the stage in a hilarious tribute. A fabulous fashion show by Marilyn’s and VG Shoes ended with the men in the audience being encouraged to come up on stage and, for a modest donation, strut their stuff on the catwalk – much to the delight of the whole audience.
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01 – Media mogul turned shoe maven Vicki Gabereau, left, teams up with gal pal and West Vancouver fashionista Marilyn Diligenti to put on a fashion show to remember.
02 – Love Her 2014 Gala event chair Rose Keith, centre, poses with volunteers Catherine Paterson, left, and Sheri Eastman.
03 – Honourary event chair Yvonne Zawadzki, of Birks fame.
04 – Global TV anchor Sophie Lui, left, and Global National BC’s Robin Gill.
05 – She’s got a wealth of impressions up her sleeve. Impersonator/comedienne Jessica Holmes had everyone roaring with laughter.
06 – Models from Marilyn’s and VG Shoes prepare backstage for the big show.
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By Catherine Barr – May 28, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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Brian Jessel may be known for his luxury car dealerships, but he is also known for throwing some of Vancouver’s best charity parties. The Cabriolet Gala is one of the hottest parties of the year and in the past has featured names like Jay Leno, CeeLo Green, Colin James and the Barenaked Ladies. This year it was time for high fashion to take centre stage as designer Gianni Maanaki showed off his spectacular haute couture line. It was also a night to unveil the new BMW i8 car which was definitely a show stopper. Guests also enjoyed food and drinks courtesy of some of Vancouver’s top restaurants and a live and silent auction filled with super glamorous items. All donations received and fundraising activities in support of Pancreatic Cancer Canada.
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01 – Host Brian Jessel, seen here with staff member Catherine Jang, greets guests welcomes VIPs to Cabriolet 2014.
02 – AllWest Insurance’s Devina Zalesky and son Stefan. AllWest is one of this night’s major sponsors.
03 – Glam gals Tammy Moyer, left, from News1130 radio, and Dawn Chubai, of BT television are co-hosts of this evening’s festivities.
04 – Heidi Carton, left, husband Larry Rahn and Susie Bechler sip champagne in the Veuve Cliquot VIP lounge.
05 – Event organizer and PR gal Diana Zoppa, left, stands with Gianni Minaaki model in a tribute i8 dress made specially for this event.
06 – Also spotted in the VIP section, guests Lori Shea, left, Kirk Herrington and Cindi George.
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By Catherine Barr – May 23, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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Spring is gala season! So what better way to celebrate than to raise money for your school. That was what the parents at West Vancouver’s Ecole Pauline Johnson did last week via their talented Parents’ Advisory Committee (PAC) with the Samba Till Sunrise fundraiser and art auction. Hollyburn Country Club was decked out in colours as everyone got into the theme. But what made this event extra special was the many professional art items put up for bid which were created by the kids in conjunction with famous name artists like Bobbie Burgers and Brent Comber. Congrats to all involved.
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01 – Looking extra glam are Pauline Johnson moms Omur Anil, left, Emma Tucker and Josephine Breslaw.
02 – He’s even better than Jay Leno. Parent George Reznik is a definite crowd pleaser as this year’s MC.
03 – Committee member and organizer Eileen Huster and husband Andreas.
04 – The Queen of Samba and her dancers entertain guests during the silent auction reception.
05 – Mark Trotzuk and Jennifer Hatton shop the silent auction and art items up for grabs.
06 – Bidding on one of the feature art pieces of the evening is committee member Jill Whitehead and husband Peter.
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By Catherine Barr – May 2, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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The Athletics for Kids (A4K) annual boxing gala was held last week at West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Country Club. Helping raise money for kids who cannot always afford to play sports, the association’s annual event is a glamorous affair complete with Las Vegas theme, sit-down dinner, auction items and live sanctioned boxing bouts. Famous sports names, glamorous showgirls and some knock ’em sock ’em action are all part of the fun. Congrats to all involved who are putting up a fight for kids that want to get in the game, no matter what the cost.
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01 – Glamorous Vegas style showgirls welcome guests to the black-tie dinner and live boxing event.
02 – Past president Chris Obst teams up with Eventful Innovations PR gal Pamela Buck.
03 – Making the predictions for the Kentucky Derby winner during dinner are horse racing expert Tommy Wolski, left, and John Teti of Shark Club and Ginson Hospitality fame.
04 – B.C. Lions centre Angus Reid may have announced his retirement earlier this year, but here he’s ready to ring the bell as event MC.
05 – A4K director Craig Knapton and wife Becky entertain VIPs at their dinner table.
06 – Checking in guests are glam girls Rachelle Perkins, from left, Alexis Dutnall, Naima Abbondanza and Sharon Abbondanza.
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By Catherine Barr – May 2, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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The Heart of Gold Gala, held in support of the Heart and Stroke Foundation – BC and Yukon chapter, will hold its 10th Anniversary fundraising event later next month. In preparation for the big night, a private VIP reception for donors, committee members and guests was held yesterday at the super chic downtown home of Janelle and Kyle Washington. The stunning views and sunlit patios were the perfect backdrop for the invite-only reception which included canapes, cocktails and speeches. Sadly, heart and stroke still takes the life of one Canadian every seven minutes and more than 1.6 million individuals are living with the effects of heart disease. More information on how to get involved and/or how to donate can be found at www.heartandstroke.bc.ca
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01 – Kyle and Janelle Washington graciously open up their home to host the VIP reception.
02 – Olympian Charmaine Crooks, left, is this year’s gala chair. Here she is seen with friend Christina Tanti.
03 – Committing to a generous six figure donation, Bob and Diane Conconi, attend the event with administrative assistant Sanja Simic, left.
04 – Natalie and Amar Doman are known for their kindness and philanthropy.
05 – Dr. Douglas Clement chats with CTV news anchor Coleen Christie.
06 – Honourary chairs Jane and Peter Scott with past committee member Willa MacDougall.
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By Catherine Barr – May 7, 2014
Also as seen in the Vancouver Sun Newspaper
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By Catherine Barr
www.CatherineBarr.com | www.WestVancouver.com | www.NorthVancouver.com
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The Children’s Wish Foundations of Canada, BC and Yukon Chapter, held their inaugural gala this past week in spectacular surroundings at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Entitled simply “Wish”, the night was a wonderland of light and glamour as invited guests enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails and canapes in the gallery’s top floor terrace. After it was time to proceed downstairs for an elegant dinner by Hawksworth Restaurant. Live and silent auction items helped round out the night which raised over $80,000 which will go towards granting extra special wishes for children and their families.
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01 – John MacPhail, seen here with wife Karen, of Global Securities Corporation.
02 – Former politician and federal leader of the Canadian Alliance party Stockwell Day is among the VIP guests.
03 – Adam Garvin, left, with visiting Children’s Wish CEO Chris Kotsopoulos.
04 – Event chair and vice chair of Children’s Wish BC & Yukon’s Lana Bradshaw, left, board chair and Blue Cross CEO Jan Grude and director Jennifer Peterson.
05 – Dressed in sparkling jewels, Sonia Beeksma plays MC for the evening.
06 – Steve Vestergaard, left, of Destiny Media Technologies with Brock Daem of Global Securities Corporation.
By Catherine Barr
There were police cars everywhere, sirens, flashing lights, and even live gunfire. The Vancouver Police Foundation’s Night Patrol Gala was held last week at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Riot police and helicopters escorted guests to their tables just before emergency responders arrived with dogs and machine guns to put on a very realistic hostage takedown. It was an exciting beginning to a night that also honoured the VPD’s Vancouver Police Pipe Band on their 100th anniversary. After the dinner and live auction, West Vancouver’s famous singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan entertained alongside members of the pipe band. A magical evening that won’t soon be forgotten.
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01 – Big round of applause for Vancouver Police Foundation trustee and event co-chairs Ryan Beedie and wife Cindy for all their hard work.
02 – Vancouver Police Pipe Band drummer Ed Wagstaff is all smiles as he meets Global TV weather forecaster and North Van gal Kristi Gordon.
03 – Vancouver Police superintendent Jeff Sim, left, joins West Vancouver’s Wendy and Sergio Cocchia.
04 – Looking gorgeous and glam, West Vancouver socialites Sharlene Ludwig, left, and Janelle Washington set off all the police sirens.
05 – West Vancouverites Kristy Brinkley, left, and Janis O’Sullivan chat during the cocktail reception.
06 – Upping the bids for charity, Maynard’s auctioneer Barry Scott and West Van’s Eric Savics are among the invited guests.
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By Catherine Barr – February 25, 2014
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Mar 6, 2014
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The first big awards show of the 2014 season, the Golden Globes, is officially over. As always, everyone was talking about the red carpet hits and misses, the big winners, and the big sinners. American Hustle walked away with the most hardware and Cecil B. DeMille honouree Woody Allen didn’t show up, but the gossip doesn’t stop there. Here’s how this Cat called it:
Too Many Shots of U2’s Bono
I seriously think the camera crew was in love as they cut to the music icon sitting in the audience almost every segment. He received almost more screen time than the hosts. Speaking of which . . .
More Tina Fey and Amy Poehler
The girls lived up to their dynamic duo name and got big laughs during their opening monologue. Later, Poehler dressed up as a teenage boy and Fey’s love child and proceeded to walk among the audience looking for her real father. That was about it though. I thought they were very funny and would have liked to see them get more stage time.
Jacqueline Bisset Hot Mess
After looking truly shocked that she won Best Supporting Actress in a TV Show, Miniseries or TV Movie, veteran British actress Jacqueline Bisset made everyone wait as she lollygagged her way onto the stage only to give a horrendous thank you speech that made her appear completely incompetent. She was even bleeped for using the “S” word.
P Diddy, Usher and Kate
Poor Kate Beckinsale. She didn’t stand a chance of getting near the microphone with these two egomaniacs on stage. Usher muscled himself into the centre position for the first award – after which P Diddy “voice bombed” the winner. Next, Puffy muscled out Usher for the second award and again refused to shut up after the winner was announced. Rude. Ungentlemanly. Greedy. I would have like to see Kate in the middle and she should have announced the winner each time.
Diane Keaton’s Lame Speech and Song
No one was expecting Woody Allen to actually show up for his award, but when Diane Keaton showed up in his place I at least expected something interesting. How bad was it? To quote Keaton directly “If Woody saw this he’d say ‘Get the hook and get her the [bleep] off the stage’”. Ending with the song “Make new friends, but keep the old” was just the icing on the cake. Also hated the girl tux she wore. Ugh.
Best Dressed – Amy Adams, Jessica Chastain, Kate Beckinsale, Margot Robbie.
There were so many good gowns to choose from but these ladies topped everyone opting for classic lines, elegant fabrics and daring details. Cate Blanchett and Mila Kunis get runner-up mentions here also.
Worst Dressed – Drew Barrymore, Jessica Lange, Kaley Cuoco and Zooey Deschanel
This is definitely a case of love the actress, hate the dress. Drew Barrymore, I know you’re pregnant but this dress, and that orange-red lipstick and shoes, did not work. Jessica Lange looked frumpy in velvet. Big Bang Theory’s Kaley Cuoco tried to be daring but her dress just looked like a big cheap tattoo. And Zooey, this isn’t your fault, I just hate hate hate boxy crop tops and cap sleeves even if they are Oscar de la Renta. Also close runner ups here were Jennifer Lawrence, who has an awesome body and didn’t need the big white kleenex-meets-sausage dress, and Julia Roberts just because I didn’t like the shirt-under-a-ballgown look either.
Counting Number of Times Red Carpet Hosts Said the Word “Amazing”
Thanks to the NBC feed, we were stuck watching Matt Lauer, Savannah Guthrie and Tamron Hall on the red carpet this year. Going through the paces, I think they told everyone they interviewed how “amazing” their dress/movie/performance was this year. Boring. Would have made for a good drinking game though.
Leonard DiCaprio
Love him or hate him, Leo is bank. His acceptance speech for winning Best Actor, Motion Picture, Comedy for The Wolf of Wall Street was one of the evening’s most elegant. But I do think it’s about time he stopped dating his Mom.
Paula Patton Nipple Shot
Have stylists and actresses learned nothing from last year’s Anne Hathaway “nipple-gate”. Ladies, wear a bra or at least cover those up.
Real Life Philomena Lee and Niki Lauda
It was heartwarming to see both the real life Philomena Lee (from the film Philomena) and Formula One car driver Niki Lauda (from the film Rush) appear on stage to present. Too bad they forgot about Canadian Ambassador Ken Taylor last year – but then again, his role in Argo was deemed to be a minor one, which was also too bad.
First Win by Netflix
Robin Wright took home the Globe for Best Actress, TV Drama for the Netflix produced series House of Cards. The win marks the first time in history that a TV internet series hits the big time. Other than the side boob slip, this win has to have traditional network executive nervous as to what the future holds. Congrats Netflix.
By Catherine Barr
Get out your social calendar and let’s plan to party. As the new 2014 year begins there is lots of fun to be had. Many regulars are back, including wine festivals, art galleries and theatre openings. And there’s lots of places for live entertainment and food too. Pick the ones you like for dressing up, or down, but best of all, there are lots of chances to help give to charity. So let’s get the gala gears going and remember to stay in touch and save me a smile.
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01 – Comedians Brett Butt, left, and wife Nancy joined Leo Awards producer and North Vancouverite Walter Daroshin on the red carpet this past spring. Look for Leos to be handed out again early June 2014.
02 – Putting up a fight for kids in sport are Craig Knapton, left, and boxer Manny Sobral. The Athletics for Kids (A4K) gala will be held on May 2, 2014 at Hollyburn Country Club and includes live sanctioned boxing bouts.
03 – Whistler’s Cornucopia is one of the year’s best food and wine events and now extends to two weekends starting the second week in November 2014. Notables like Olympian Ashleigh McIvor, hubby and Whitecaps star Jay DeMerit, Hy’s Steakhouse owner Neil Aisenstat and Foxtrot Vineyard’s Gustav Allander were all on hand at one of last year’s best dinners.
04 – A toast to the Vancouver International Wine Festival by executive director Harry Hertscheg, left, and Bard on the Beach’s leading man, Christopher Gaze. This year France is the featured country and events run from February 24 – March 2, 2014.
05 – West Vancouver’s Harmony Arts festival has grown in so many ways and now includes fun wine and food nights as well as the week long art show and live entertainment stages. Harmony Arts manager Christie Rosta, left, joined Marnie Wilson and House Wine hostesses Michaela Morris and Michelle Bouffard for a perfect night on the pier last year. Mark your calendars for August 1-10, 2014.
06 – North Vancouver’s Lynn Valley Days is an amazing community day event and gala dinner evening held at the end of May 2014. Last year, Peter Haigh, left, from North Shore Rescue, Lynn Valley Days committee member Gillian Konst and Lynn Valley Community president and Lions Club member Eric Miura celebrated in style.
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By Catherine Barr – Jan 6, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Jan 9, 2013
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Galas and giving go hand in hand at this time of the year. And never more so than with the great folks at Amica Mature Lifestyles and their Helping Hands Gala. Held at the Four Seasons hotel, guests were treated to a spectacular 70s themed evening complete with crazy costumes, auction items, live music and a 70s themed food event that featured specially made Cracker Jacks and Pop Tarts for dessert. Always known for fun, the evening is all about raising funds for the Helping Hands charity which supports low-income seniors during the holidays. In addition to the many social and wellness programs they support, monies also go to help fund passenger vans for seniors’ community groups and a heartwarming basket giving program that sees a holiday basket full of food, gift certificates and blankets delivered to seniors in need. Happy Holidays!
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01 – Honorary gala chair Chuck van der Lee, left, joins Amica president and CEO Samir Manji and MC/host Riaz Meghji from CityTV.
02 – Chief operating officer Colin Halliwell and wife Brenda are digging the disco ball decorations at the 70s themed gala.
03 – Three cheers for Amica glam gals Deb Burrowes, left, event co-chair Lynn Madigan and Sheena Manji.
04 – Helping sell giving baskets are two of the evening’s best helpers: sisters Celina and Kiyaana Manji.
05 – West Vancouver’s Amica ladies Lynn Larsen, left, and Laura Lachambre get into the theme of things.
06 – The North Shore’s Tamee and Salim Karim are celebrating in two ways tonight after just having twins a few weeks ago.
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By Catherine Barr – Nov 6, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Dec 12, 2013
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North Shore Family Services is known for its outreach and for the many programs it runs to help families all across our community. They also provide especially important services over the holidays, including the North Shore Christmas Bureau campaign which helps ensure that no child goes without during this special season. Last week, the Fuller family graciously donated use of the Beach House restaurant in West Vancouver to hold an important fund raising evening. Guests paid a suggested $500 donation to attend and all of the funds raised go to support the Christmas Bureau program. Big thanks to committee members Karen Bruk, Charlene Dalton, Marie Genest, Susan Green, Coryn Hemsley, Carlota Lee, Susan MacDonald, Janice O’Sullivan, Cindy Pasco, Monica Soprovich, Lisa Stout, Coleen Weir and Christy Young.
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01 – Organizers Monica Soprovich, left, and Janis O’Sullivan cuddle up to Beach House manager Mike Mitchell.
02 – Christie Lee attends the event with mom Carlota Lee, who is also part of the organizing committee.
03 – Looking festive for the fundraiser are Kirsten Morrison, left, Kelly Fuller and Christy Young.
04 – BlueShore Financial president and CEO Chris Catliff and wife Kym are among the VIPs and supporters in attendance.
05 – Family Services’ own Cynthia Orr, left, and Julia Staub French are very pleased with the generous turnout for the big Christmas event.
06 – Cheers to Kim and Jeff McCord who are well-known for their philanthropy and generosity to so many charities.
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By Catherine Barr – Nov 28, 2013
Also as seen in print in the North Shore Outlook Newspaper on Dec 5, 2013
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